The U.S. Army Armament Research, Development and Engineering Center (ARDEC) recently sponsored an ‘Introduce a Girl to Engineering’ Open House on the Picatinny Arsenal. Over 100 high-
school girls attended the event that encouraged pursuit of careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). The Open House provided the girls an opportunity to meet women engineers from Picatinny Arsenal and talk with them about their careers and accomplishments. The Picatinny engineers showcased products and cutting-edge technologies and provided hands-on demonstrations and experiments for a first-hand appreciation of engineering.
This year, Helene Ferm, Chugach’s Resource Efficiency Manager (REM), participated in the event. In her REM role, she provides energy management services to Picatinny’s Department of Public Works. At the Open House, Helene presented aspects of Picatinny’s energy program includes a photo-voltaic solar field, LED lighting projects, and an on-site cogeneration plant that is under construction. Part of her interaction with the students included asking them to hold sample insulation jackets for steam valves and having them imagine how the jacket could save energy for Picatinny.
Helene Ferm is a mechanical engineer and a Certified Energy Manager (CEM), and we are happy to employ her expertise on the Picatinny contract. Her willingness to share her knowledge with the students who are considering STEM fields of study aligns with our Core Behaviors. Helene and the Picatinny team are doing their part to build community and empower the youth who live on and near the arsenal.